EM Cap Program

The EM Cap Program caps a single employer's experience modifier (EM) to minimize the effects of a large premium increase.

The EM Cap Program will equal 100 percent of the previous year's published experience modifier (EM). The previous year's EM could be an individual EM or group EM if the employer was participating in a group-rating plan that year.

Example: An employer is in a maximum discount group for the 2015 policy year and gets the group EM of 0.47. In 2016 they're not renewed in a group, so the company would go to base rate. However, because the employer is eligible for EM capping, we'll cap the EM for the 2016 policy year at 0.94.

Note: Experience modifier (EM) is a relative measure of expected future claims costs. This means BWC compares accident coverage between employers and modifies coverage premiums based on how well an employer is doing in their industry, compared to other companies.

Eligibility requirements

Not have cumulative lapses in workers' comp coverage in excess of 40 days within the preceding 12 months.

Not more than 45 days past due on any premiums, including retrospective rating billings.

Report actual payroll for the preceding policy year, and pay any premium due upon reconciliation of estimated premium and actual premium for that policy year no later than the date set forth in rule OAC 4123-17-14.

Note: Employers who want to keep the EM cap for the subsequent year must complete three hours of online safety classes through this website.

Enrolling in the program

There’s no need to apply. We’ll contact you if you qualify for this program.